wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

1

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

2

: a particular course or line of thought especially as related to mutual understanding

two people on different wavelengths

Examples of wavelength in a Sentence

Light and sound have different wavelengths.

Recent Examples on the Web

Not to be confused with bioluminescence, where the animal glows on its own, fluorescence occurs when a molecule absorbs a certain wavelength of light being projected on it and then re-emits the light at a slightly longer wavelength, according to a study published June 12 in the journal PLOS One. —Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 13 June 2024

Checks at other wavelengths indicate there's a magnetar and a supernova remnant in the vicinity of the mystery object, but not at the same location. —John Timmer, Ars Technica, 5 June 2024

Gold is yellowish because relativistic effects shrink the gap between two of its electron shells, slightly shifting the wavelengths of light that the element absorbs and reflects. —Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 14 May 2024

Consider doing some meditation or focused journaling to get in touch with your inner wavelength once more. —Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 23 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

1

: the distance (as from crest to crest) in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next corresponding point

2

: a certain line of thought or behavior that reveals a common understanding

coworkers who are on the same wavelength

Medical Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length -ˌleŋ(k)th 

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

—symbol λ